Solenoid valves are essential components in fluid and gas control systems, and the ASCO solenoid valve is one of the most trusted names globally. Found across Malaysia’s industrial landscape—in HVAC plants, water treatment facilities, oil & gas operations, and even food manufacturing—these valves are known for their durability and fast response time.
That said, one common issue that even high-quality ASCO solenoid valves can face is buzzing or humming during operation. While this may not always mean failure, ignoring it could lead to wear, energy inefficiency, or even valve breakdown over time.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the main causes of valve buzzing, how to troubleshoot the problem, and how to prevent it from recurring—all tailored to Malaysian operating conditions.
Buzzing is more common in AC-powered ASCO solenoid valves than in DC models. That’s because AC current alternates at 50Hz or 60Hz, causing the valve’s internal armature to vibrate slightly with each cycle. If the plunger isn’t seated perfectly, this vibration can become audible.
DC coils, in contrast, generate a stable magnetic field and usually operate silently—making them ideal for quieter environments like labs or medical facilities.
Over time, the internal moving parts—like the plunger or core—can loosen due to:
These issues can cause the armature to chatter or hum when energised. If the valve is in a hot, humid environment like many industrial sites in Malaysia, component wear happens faster than in dry, controlled spaces.
A common but often overlooked cause is voltage mismatch. If a 230V coil receives lower or fluctuating voltage due to a weak supply line, generator load, or VSD interference, the magnetic pull becomes inconsistent—causing audible buzzing. This is especially likely in remote or multi-source facilities, common in Malaysia’s palm oil mills or rural waterworks.
If the supply is unstable, install surge protectors or consider isolating the valve’s power source.
If the coil shows signs of overheating (burn marks or melted casing), it should be replaced immediately.
If the noise continues despite cleaning and voltage checks, the coil could be failing internally. Natrade supplies genuine ASCO solenoid valve coils with full voltage ratings in both AC and DC formats—12V, 24V, 110V, and 230V.
Always replace coils with the correct type and match both voltage and frequency to your supply.
Buzzing isn’t just an irritation—it’s often a sign your system needs fine-tuning. Here’s how to prevent it:
Routine maintenance and monthly visual inspections help extend valve life and maintain consistent, noise-free operation.
Buzzing from your ASCO solenoid valve may seem minor, but it’s often a warning sign worth investigating. Whether it’s voltage issues, worn internals, or environmental stress, proper diagnosis and maintenance are key to restoring smooth, silent operation.
At Natrade, we understand the operating demands of Malaysian industries. That’s why we provide local support, fast delivery of ASCO coils and valve parts, and expert guidance on selecting the right configuration—AC, DC, quiet coil, or IP-rated enclosure—to suit your system.
To request a coil replacement, consult a technician, or schedule an inspection, register with Natrade today. Let’s keep your flow steady—and your valves silent.
North American Trade Source (NATS) is a trusted distributor of premium oil and gas equipment, committed to delivering innovative solutions and exceptional customer service worldwide.
